Maintain Your Edge. How do you build the body of a top level athlete? Use what the pros do - Iron Weight Plates and Dumbells Free weight training offers a wide range of intensities for a wide range of users. There are many benefits to using free weights instead of weight machines. Of course, for the best workout, you should incorporate both into your exercise routine. When using free weights, your muscles are completely engaged as you both lift and balance the weight. Weight machines keep the weights steady and moving in the proper motion. With free weights, it is up to you to maintain proper form and engage your muscles to their fullest extent. From beginner to world class athlete, the results are the same. Free weight training has always been considered the best form of full range intensity exercise. With free weight training your muscles are challenged throughout their full range of motion, applying both positive and negative resistance for maximum results.